Directors.

Our Team

Paula Armstrong

President, BA, MEd

Paula Armstrong holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership. She taught for over thirty-two years in both private and public schools in the USA and Papua New Guinea (PNG) before retiring in December, 2012. She now volunteers in the office of GDG USA receipting and conversing with US donors. She lives happily with Colin in the mountains of Tennessee, which remind her of the beautiful terrain of PNG. She serves GDG USA as President.

Colin Armstrong

Treasurer, BSc

Colin Armstrong holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. He taught Math and Science in private school, but spent most of his career in the chemical/pharmaceutical production industry. He has worked for facilities in Australia and the USA as QC Chemist, Production Specialist, and Supervisor/Manager. Colin retired in 2002. He has served on the Board of GDG USA since its inception and works as a volunteer in the office for GDG USA, serving as Treasurer.

Howard Vander Griend

Board Member

Howard VanderGriend is a graduate of Kuyper College holding a Bachelor’s degree in Religious Education and has a Master’s degree from Lee University in Mental Health counseling. He currently works at a Crisis Mental Health Facility. He has also held various positions in the field of aviation including Mission Pilot and flight instructor. Howard’s wisdom, skills and life experiences make him an esteemed Director.

Sandra Vander Griend

Board Member

Sandy VanderGriend attended Kuyper College before moving to Nigeria, West Africa for a period of time. She was a home-maker and home-schooled her children through high school. She has held positions in retail, and as a receptionist. Sandy’s experience of having lived in an impoverished nation has given her an expertise in varied areas when dealing with our projects. This makes Sandy a highly regarded Director of the GDG USA Board.

John Pearce

Board Member

John Pearce has a Bachelor of Arts in Management from Southeastern University. He has been employed at credit unions in Florida and Tennessee for 10 years and is currently a branch manager at Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union. With John’s expertise, he serves as a valued advisor in numerous areas.

Melody Amato

Board Member

Melody Amato has an Associates of Applied Science in Accounting from Ivy Tech Community College, and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Indiana Wesleyan University. She has worked for Indiana University for over 10 years in the departments of Treasury and Financial Management Services. She currently holds the position of External Reporting and Compliance Administrator in which she prepares the annual financial report for the university. She has two children that are attending college. Melody plays an important role as a board member as she oversees accounts for GDG USA and works with the IRS on GDG USA’s behalf.

Rebecca Pearce

Board Member

Rebecca Pearce graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in Management. She has worked as an Office Manager and Bookkeeper and is currently employed at Specialized Physical Therapy as an Office Manager. Rebecca also owns her own small business. Rebecca enjoys being a part of the ministry at her church and serving on the Board of Directors of Global Development Group USA. She lives with her husband and two small children in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Craig Tunney

Board Member

Craig Tunney is Senior Project Officer for GDG’s projects in South East Asia. Prior to this Craig has experience in financial and systems management in a large company. Craig has also served on the Board of a Christian school, and several leadership roles in local community organizations. He is qualified with a Degree in Economics and a member of CPA Australia. Craig has been married to Vici for 36 years and together we have three grown children and seven grandchildren. We live in sunny Brisbane, Australia.

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About GDG USA

Global Development Group USA is an Organization Exempt From Income Tax with 501(c)(3) status carrying out humanitarian projects with approved partners and providing aid to relieve poverty.